2017 KTM 250 SX-F vs 2020 Yamaha YZ250F

Full specifications comparison • 2 motorcycles

Comparing 2 motorcycles
2017 KTM 250 SX-F 2017 KTM 250 SX-F

Cross / motocross

Engine
Single cylinder, four-stroke
Power
N/A
Top Speed
N/A
Weight
98.2 kg / 216.5 lbs
2020 Yamaha YZ250F 2020 Yamaha YZ250F

Cross / motocross

Engine
Titanium-valves
Power
N/A
Top Speed
N/A
Weight
234.0 pounds
Full Specifications
General
ColoursOrange/white/blackTeam Yamaha Blue, Gray
Warranty-30 Day Limited Factory Warranty
Dimensions
Ground Clearance (in.)14.6 inches13.2 inches
Ground Clearance (mm)370 mm335 mm
Seat Height960 mm / 37.8 in.965 mm / 38.0 in.
Wheelbase1,485 mm / 58.5 in.1476 mm / 58.1 in.
Height-1285 mm / 50.6 in.
Length-2174 mm / 85.6 in.
Width-826 mm / 32.5 in.
Weights & Capacities
Oil Capacity (l)-0.90 litres
Oil Capacity (Quarts)-0.95 US quarts
Dry Weight98.2 kg / 216.5 lbs-
Fuel Capacity7.00 litres / 1.85 gallons6.06 litres / 1.60 US gallons
Wet Weight-106.1 kg / 234.0 lbs
Performance
Maximum RPM14000-
Engine
Bore x Stroke (in,)3.1 x 2.1 inches3.0 x 2.1 inches
Displacement (cc)249.91 cc250.0 cc
Displacement (ci)15.25 cubic inches15.26 cubic inches
Engine TypeSingle cylinder, four-strokeSingle cylinder, four-stroke
Fuel ControlDouble Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)Double Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)
Bore x Stroke (mm)78.0 x 52.3 mm77.0 x 53.6 mm
Engine Detail-Titanium-valves
Fuel System-Injection. Mikuni fuel injection, 44mm
Compression Ratio-13.8:1
Engine Lubrication-Wet sump
IgnitionKeihin EMSTCI: Transistor Controlled Ignition
StarterElectricKick
Valve System-4
Drivetrain
ClutchWet multi-disc clutch / hydraulically operatedMultiplate wet clutch
Final DriveChainChain   (final drive)
Gearbox5-speed5-speed
Primary Drive13:48. Primary drive: 22:68.-
Chassis
Frame Type25CrMo4 steel central-tube frameBilateral beam aluminum frame
Suspension - FrontWP-USD, AER 48, ? 48 mmKYB speed-Sensitive System, inverted fork: fully adjustable
Suspension - RearWP shock absorber with linkageKYB fully adjustable single shock
Rake26.5°28.0°
Wheel Travel - Front300 mm / 11.8 in.310 mm / 12.2 in.
Wheel Travel - Rear300 mm / 11.8 in.318 mm / 12.5 in.
Wheels & Brakes
Brakes - Rear Diameter (mm)220 mm-
Brakes - Rear Diameter (in.)8.7 inches-
Brakes - Front Diameter (mm)260 mm-
Brakes - Front Diameter (in.)10.2 inches-
Brakes - FrontSingle disc. Brake calipers on floating bearingsSingle disc. Hydraulic.
Brakes - RearSingle disc. Brake calipers on floating bearingsSingle disc. Hydraulic.
RimsCNC machined hubs. Excel rims. Wire spoked.Bridgestone® M403A tyres
Tyres - Front-80/100-21

Verdict

Winner on specs

2020 Yamaha YZ250F

The 2020 Yamaha YZ250F edges out the 2017 KTM 250 SX-F thanks to its fuel injection and higher rear wheel travel. Specifications are one part of the picture - dealer support, parts availability, and intended use all matter too.

Key Differences

2017 KTM 250 SX-F - Advantages

  • More ground clearance: 370 mm vs 335 mm - better clearance over rocks and obstacles.

2020 Yamaha YZ250F - Advantages

  • Fuel injection: Precise fuelling, better cold-start reliability, and lower maintenance requirements.
  • More rear wheel travel: 318 mm vs 300 mm - absorbs bigger hits and rough terrain better.

2017 KTM 250 SX-F vs 2020 Yamaha YZ250F - FAQs

Which should I buy, the 2017 KTM 250 SX-F or the 2020 Yamaha YZ250F?
Both are strong choices. The 2017 KTM 250 SX-F has the edge in greater ground clearance, while the 2020 Yamaha YZ250F stands out for fuel injection and higher rear wheel travel. Visit dealers, arrange test rides, and factor in local parts and service costs - these often matter as much as the spec sheet.